FEMA Recommends Residents In Hurricane-Hit Areas Take Extreme Caution In Storm's Aftermath
Release Date: August 15, 2004
Release Number: HQ-04-120
» More Information on Florida Hurricane Charley and Tropical Storm Bonnie
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends that residents in the areas hit by Hurricane Charley listen carefully to local officials and stay tuned to their local news for ongoing response and recovery information. In addition, residents are urged to be extremely cautious. While the storm may have passed, there are many dangers left behind that could cause death or injury.
"Please stay alert when returning to your home or when venturing out in your neighborhood," said Michael D. Brown, Under Secretary for Emergency Preparedness and Response. "While the immediate danger is past, there are weakened and damaged trees, downed power lines, high water and other dangers that cannot be ignored."
FEMA recommends:
- Avoid loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the utility company, police or fire department.
- If you see sparks or broken or frayed wires or if you smell hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. Contact an electrician for assistance.
- If you suspect sewage lines are damaged, avoid using the toilets and contact a plumber. If water pipes are damaged, contact the water company and avoid using water from the tap.
- Check refrigerated foods for spoilage and throw out any questionable food. Remember that dairy products and meats spoil quickly without refrigeration and should be thrown out if they have not had cooling for several hours. Do not rely on your sense of smell. It is not a good idea to salvage food by cooking it and keeping it un-refrigerated for a few days.
- Take pictures of the damage to both the house and its content for insurance claims.
- Avoid traveling into damaged areas except to secure or repair your property. Unnecessary travel into the damaged areas interferes with recovery efforts.
- Do not allow children to play in or around debris piles, and check play areas for disaster-caused safety hazards.
- Do not try to remove any displaced propane tanks. These represent a real danger of fire or explosion. Get in touch with police or fire officials to report the location of these tanks.
For more information about hurricane preparedness and recovery, visit the FEMA Web site, at www.fema.gov.
On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Sunday, 15-Aug-2004 16:37:45